Approach Cyber and AXS Guard join forces to become one of Belgium’s major cybersecurity providers

The merger is a project of entrepreneurs, born from a shared vision and natural complementarity that goes beyond economic and financial considerations. It provides a response to the increasing complexity and fast speed of developments in security.

This new entity supports organizations in each phase of their cybersecurity journey. The experienced team limits risks, strengthens compliance, and improves resilience and continuity, enabling customers to focus on their core activities with confidence. 

A strong Belgian cybersecurity player

Recent cyber incidents illustrate the growing need for cybersecurity services. By combining the assets of Approach Cyber and AXS Guard, the new company can assist customers in each of their challenges – from preventing incidents to managing crises and developing a business continuity plan.

The merger also strengthens the position of AXS Guard and Approach Cyber as a real Belgian, yet European-oriented player. It encourages the collaboration between Belgium’s three regions in terms of digital sovereignty. The new organization’s first priority is expanding the activities in Belgium. In parallel, efforts are already being made to achieve international growth by supporting European companies in their pursuit of digital autonomy and higher security standards. A strategic first step was the opening of a branch in Switzerland.

For current customers, nothing will change. They can continue to rely on the trusted services with the same quality and continuity. What will change, however, is that in the future they will gain easier access to a broader network of experts. This way, they will receive faster, expert support for all aspects of their security challenges.

The merger has no consequences for the staff of both companies. A reshuffling of the teams may be possible in the future to strengthen synergies, but all employees will remain on board. This gives customers access to the expertise and skills of more than one hundred professionals.

An ambitious growth strategy

The new entity has the ambition to be a large, yet approachable cybersecurity player that remains agile and pragmatic as the company grows. David Vanderoost, the CEO of Approach Cyber, will lead the organization. Alex Ongena, who was CEO of AXS Guard, will join the board of directors and take on the role of CTO.

David Vanderoost, CEO of Approach Cyber: “AXS Guard offers more than powerful technology. The company delivers proactive, high-end managed security services that completely unburden customers from detection and prevention to fast response. This allows organizations to focus on their core activities with peace of mind, backed by a Security Operations Center (SOC) with profound expertise and tailored support. The merger is therefore much more than a blend of two renowned cybersecurity pioneers. Together, we form a stronger entity that is better equipped to help customers with increasing cybersecurity threats. The synergy of our talents and technical, legal, and management expertise generates a unique offering in the market.”

Alex Ongena, founder of AXS Guard: “Approach Cyber provides a complete spectrum of cybersecurity services across the entire value chain. From governance and Risk & Compliance, to privacy, data protection, and ethical hacking. With 24/7 managed security from their own Security Operations Center (SOC), the company guarantees continuous monitoring and fast on-site response to support organizations. I’m enthusiastic about this unique opportunity to merge two Belgian players. We are extremely complementary and can deliver complete unburdening in terms of cybersecurity. From assessment to monitoring and incident/response.”

Merging these assets and combining their expertise and technology was therefore a logical step for both companies. “After the merger, customers will have access to a 360° portfolio that seamlessly combines advanced technology, strategic advice, and 24/7 security”, they say in unison.

Michel Akkermans, executive chairman Approach Cyber and investor (Pamica): “I’m delighted that two leading companies join forces to become a larger, more agile entity that meets cybersecurity challenges today and in the future, with a unique blend of expertise and innovation.”